How to go from Chicago Union Station to four Airports

Chicago Union Station serves as the city’s rail hub, central to Amtrak’s routes across the Midwest and many long-distance trains. Sometimes, our train journeys begin or end with a flight, making air travel an integral part of the adventure.

This article covers travel options from Chicago Union Station and nearby stations to O’Hare International Airport, Midway International Airport, Milwaukee Mitchell International Airport, and South Bend International Airport.

I frequently take Amtrak or Metra to Union Station before heading to Midway or, occasionally, O’Hare for a flight. I’ve also connected to airports in Milwaukee and South Bend.

In this guide, I will explain how to travel from Chicago Union Station to four different airports using a combination of trains and public transit. Additionally, I will share travel tips to ensure a smooth, stress-free journey. Whether you’re heading out or returning home, this roadmap will help you navigate train-to-plane travel effectively.

At a Glance: Chicago Union Station to Nearby Airports

A rideshare can be an option, but it may take longer than public transport due to traffic. However, it can be a great choice if you have kids, a lot of luggage, or physical restrictions.

Overview of Your Options

Chicago offers convenient options for traveling to and from several airports! This article covers Chicago Airports, Milwaukee, WI, and South Bend, IN.

Major Airports in the Chicago Area

Chicago has two main commercial airports:

• Midway International Airport (MDW)
• O’Hare International Airport (ORD)

Some travelers also consider Milwaukee Mitchell International Airport (MKE) a solid alternative, especially if there’s a great fare or you’re already in the area.

While Amtrak doesn’t stop directly at Chicago’s airports, once you arrive at Chicago Union Station (CHI), there are several ways to reach them. You can connect to the Chicago Transit Authority (CTA), use Metra (for O’Hare), or take a taxi or rideshare.

Alternative Airport Options Nearby

Although these airports are not very close, they could be good options if the circumstances align.

• Milwaukee Mitchell International Airport (MKE): Amtrak offers direct service from Union Station. (Details coming up!)
• South Bend International Airport (SBN): Take a short walk to Millennium Station, then ride the South Shore Line to Indiana.

Traveling Between Midway Airport (MDW) And Chicago Union Station

Midway is the smaller of Chicago’s two airports, making navigation easier. It is my favorite airport in Chicago, and I have followed these instructions several times.

Midway Airport serves a variety of domestic and international airlines, including Southwest Airlines, low-cost carriers such as Allegiant, and regional international airlines like Porter. Here is a comprehensive list of airlines that operate out of Midway International Airport.

The easiest way to reach Midway from downtown Chicago is to take the CTA Orange Line, which offers direct service from the Loop to the airport.

Train Option: CTA Orange Line

1. Walk 0.3 miles to Quincy Station (past the Willis “Sears” Tower).
2. Board the Orange Line (inner/eastern track).
3. Ride ~25 minutes to Midway CTA Station.
4. Walk ~0.3 miles to the airport.

The Orange Line starts and ends at the airport, so you won’t have to worry about missing your stop. One important note: There is a short walk between the CTA station and the airport. However, it’s fully ADA accessible and indoors, so there’s no need to worry about the weather!

Getting to O’Hare Airport (ORD) from Chicago Union Station

O’Hare offers more flights, including discounted options and numerous international flights. If you travel here, allow extra Time, as the airport can become very busy.

If you are looking to fly in or out of this airport, here are the airlines you can use.

Option 1: CTA Blue Line

1. Walk 900 feet to Clinton Station (it is underground).
2. Take the Blue Line directly to O’Hare (~45 minutes).
3. The Blue Line ends at Terminal 2 Station.
4. Walk or take airport transportation to your terminal.

The Blue Line terminates at O’Hare Airport. Follow the signs to your terminal. Underground walkways connect terminals 1, 2, and 3, while Terminal 5 requires the airport transit system.

Estimated Time: ~40-60 minutes
Cost: Typically $2.50 for a ride from downtown Chicago to O’Hare. If you are traveling from O’Hare to downtown Chicago, the fare may be higher, often reaching up to $5, depending on your payment method.
Payment Options: Use a Ventra card, contactless payment, or cash at vending machines.

Option 2: Metra North Central Service (Weekdays Only)

1. Board the Metra North Central Service at Chicago Union Station (North Gate).
2. Ride ~33 minutes to O’Hare Transfer Station.
3. Walk to the airport transportation building.
4. Take the free Airport Transit System (ATS) to your terminal.

Estimated Time: ~40–50 minutes
Cost: $3.75 (Metra fare)
Note: This limited Metra service is only available on weekdays.
Payment Options: Purchase Metra tickets at Union Station if you are heading to O’Hare. For southbound travel, you can purchase tickets onboard with cash. Or you can use the Ventra App.

Heading to Milwaukee Mitchell International Airport (MKE)

Milwaukee is a practical option for traveling to or from Chicago. Additionally, you can utilize the Recombobulation Area, a distinctive feature of Milwaukee Airport (MKE).

To reach Milwaukee Mitchell International Airport (MKE), take the Hiawatha or Borealis trains from Chicago Union Station or Glenview, IL, both of which provide direct service to the airport station.

The Empire Builder does not stop at the airport, though it does pass by. If you’re traveling from the West on the Empire Builder and need to reach MKE Airport, you’ll need to get off in Milwaukee and transfer to either:

• Hiawatha or Borealis Service (for a short train ride to the airport stop)
• Milwaukee County Transit (local bus service)

How It Works:

• Book your Hiawatha or Borealis ticket for the Milwaukee Airport Station (MKA).
• From there, take the free airport shuttle to the terminal.
  • You must handle your luggage from the train to the shuttle and check it with your airline.

Things to Keep in Mind:

Here are a few tips to keep in mind while planning your trip.

• Plan for additional travel time. Like all forms of transportation, trains can get delayed, and you will still need to take the shuttle. Therefore, account for this when scheduling your train and flight tickets.
• Handle your luggage. MKA does not provide checked baggage services for train passengers, and you are responsible for transporting your luggage between the train, shuttle, and airport.
• Shuttle Frequency: 
  • From the depot: If you need the shuttle, please call the posted number, and they will send the next available shuttle. Signs are located as you walk to the station and also in the waiting area outside.
  • From the airport: The shuttle will meet you outside near Baggage Claim Door #5. When you board, please inform the driver that you need to go to the Amtrak station. You may be required to show them your Amtrak ticket. The shuttle runs frequently, so you shouldn’t have to wait long once you’re on board.

Booking Note – Use the correct station code when you book

Milwaukee has two Amtrak station codes that travelers may encounter, so be sure to select the correct one.

MKE – Milwaukee Intermodal Station
This is the Milwaukee downtown station. Use this station if you are heading to downtown Milwaukee or connecting with local buses, intercity buses, or other transportation options. All of Amtrak’s trains in Wisconsin stop here.

MKA – Milwaukee Airport Rail Station
This is the station you need for Milwaukee Mitchell International Airport. Amtrak’s Hiawatha and Borealis trains stop here, and a free shuttle connects the train station with the airport terminal. The Empire Builder does not stop at this location.

If you are flying out of Milwaukee, book to MKA, not MKE.

Going Between Chicago Union Station and the South Bend Airport via the South Shore Line

Yes! You can travel from Chicago Union Station to South Bend International Airport (SBN) with a quick transfer.

Here’s how it works:

1. From Union Station, head to Millennium Station (151 E. Randolph Street).
2. Catch the South Shore Line, which runs directly to South Bend Airport. The South Shore Line terminates at the airport so that you won’t miss your stop.

Getting to Millennium Station from Union Station

Since the South Shore Line doesn’t run out of Union Station, you must get to Millennium Station. Here are your options:

• Walk: It’s about a 20-minute walk east. I’ve done this many times, and honestly, it can be just as fast—or faster—than taking public transit, depending on the Time of day.
• CTA (“L”) or Bus: Several CTA routes can get you there. I recommend using a transit app, such as Google Maps, to find the best option based on your schedule. (Your route to the airport might not be the same as your route back.)
• Taxi or Rideshare: This is a convenient choice if you have luggage or want a straightforward transfer.

Travel Tip: If you’re walking or using the CTA, remember that you’ll need to carry your luggage up and down stairs, so pack light if you can! There are elevators, but there is limited space on busy trains.

Take the South Shore Line to South Bend Airport

Upon arriving at Millennium Station, proceed to the underground level.

• At Millennium Station, follow signs for the South Shore Line.
• Buy tickets at the station or on the South Shore Line app.
• Your stop is South Bend Airport (SBN), the line’s last stop.
  • Both the Millennium and South Bend Stops are endpoints so that you won’t miss them.
• The ride takes about 2.5 hours.

Arrive at the Airport

The South Shore drops you off at the airport, with a walkway connecting you to the terminal.

Travel Tips

• Check the schedule at mysouthshoreline.com — trains don’t run all day, and not all trains go to South Bend.
• Luggage is allowed; overhead luggage racks are available in most cases.

Tips for a Smooth Journey

Taking the train to area airports can be a convenient, less stressful, and, in some cases, cheaper option than driving, especially if parking is required.

While we all love train travel, sometimes we must fly, and knowing our options is helpful.

• Check schedules in advance – train and transit schedules are subject to change.
• Allow extra Time, especially during peak hours or in adverse weather conditions, as delays can occur.
• Explore different transportation options—Metra, CTA, and Amtrak connections may differ in convenience.
• Travel light—especially when making multiple transfers.
• Have a backup plan – rideshares and taxis are beneficial if transit schedules don’t align with your flight.
• Useful Links: For current schedules and service alerts, refer to the official websites of Amtrak, CTA, and Metra.

With some planning, taking the train to the airport can be a smooth and stress-free experience!

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Final Thoughts: From Rails to Runways

Whether flying in or out of Midway, O’Hare, Milwaukee, or South Bend, Chicago Union Station can be the perfect launch point for your next adventure. With options ranging from the CTA to Amtrak connections and even the South Shore Line, you’ve got choices—each with its perks.

I have found that taking the train to or from the airport might require some planning. But it can save money, reduce stress, and even add fun to your journey. As always, check those schedules, travel light when possible, and leave some wiggle room for the unexpected.

And remember—just because your trip starts or ends with a plane doesn’t mean the train can’t be part of the adventure!

Safe Travels & Happy Planning!

Kev